Panels

PANEL SUBMISSIONS NOW OPEN

Interested in hosting a panel, workshop, or interactive session at O Con Expo? You’ve come to the right place!

We’re looking for amazing, exciting, and unique content for our 10th Anniversary Event. If you have something to offer, check out the application via the button below.

Submission Deadline: March 31, 2026.

Our goal is to deliver content our community wants, no matter what fandom or interest sits at the top of their list. Expect comic creator discussions, media guest Q&As, cosplay workshops, unique performances, family-friendly activities, live-gaming, anime focused deep dives, and so much more!

SCHEDULE

The 2025 OCon Expo has entertaining and engaging programming all weekend long. Navigate the tabs below to see what panels, events, and other programming is happening this weekend.

*Panel schedule subject to change.

Friday, July 11th
Saturday, July 12th
Sunday, July 13th

TIME

PANELS

1:00 PM START TIME

World Building: Beyond the Basics

How to create immersive settings, unique cultures, and rich history that bring your stories to life in a book or a game table.

2:00 PM START TIME

Cosplay Group Q&A

An engaging Q&A session featuring the convention’s cosplay creative guests.

A Panel Is Worth 1,000 Words

Hosted by Kari Sanders.
A discussion with Phil Hester about the use of artwork to convey a story without any words. How to be impactful with your art and choose panels that don’t require narration or discussion to make the story work.

3:00 PM START TIME

Abigail Blythe Q&A

A fan-centric Q&A session featuring voice actress Abigail Blythe.

Genealogy of Superheroes

Join Omaha Public Library for a genealogy program laser-focused on superheroes. Learn more about the family history of some of your favorite superheroes and gain skills to start your own genealogy research.

Revenge of the Sith Turns 20

Hosted by Sci-Fi Author Darby Harn.
Revenge of the Sith arrived in theaters twenty years ago, concluding the Star Wars prequel trilogy, and beginning a timeless debate: is it the best Star Wars movie? Join us to celebrate this classic movie, discuss where it ranks in the saga, and have lots of fun!

4:00 PM START TIME

Mark "Kidwok" Britten: A Life of Voice Acting & Entertainment + Q&A

Dragonball and Dragonball Z voice actor, Mark “Kidwok” Britten, takes fans on a journey through a life of voice acting and entertainment. Includes time for a fan Q&A.

Build Your Working Writer Model

A behind-the-scenes look at the publishing process, from getting an idea to marketing book launches.

5:00 PM START TIME

Larry Brantley Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with voice actor, podcaster, and special guest Larry Brantley.

Mark Bagley, Jim Mehsling, Ant Lucia

Comic creators and artists Mark Bagley, Jim Mehsling, and Ant Lucia, talk comic books, art, and so much more in this joint panel session.

Practical Cloning: Intro to mold making and resin

Hosted by Cosplay Guest Tim Harrison.
How to get started with moldmaking and and resin casting for props and costumes.

6:00 PM START TIME

Douglas Tait & Brett Wagner Q&A

A fan-centric Q&A session featuring horror actors and stunt-doubles Douglas Tait and Brett Wagner.

All Things Karaoke

Hosted by Lauren Schweer.
No matter what fandom you’re in, all are welcome here! Come join the chaos and cheer on your fellow nerds as they rock to their favorite karaoke songs! Sign up on a slip of paper, and the host will get you on the mic!

Blood on the Clocktower

Hosted by Spielbound!
Blood on the Clocktower is a game of murder and mystery, lies and logic, deduction and deception for five-to-twenty courageous players and one devious storyteller. Join Spielbound as they host 15-20 players in this social game; pre-register online here or at the Spielbound table in the Game Room! Will you be ‘good’ or ‘evil’? Prepare for fun!

Crowdfunding Your Book: Kickstarter, Patreon, and More

Kickstarter? Patreon? IndieGoGo? Where do you start when you’re looking to kickstart your new book? This panel has the answers.

7:00 PM START TIME

Mork Borg

Dive into the grim and captivating world of Mörk Borg with our panel on character creation and gameplay. Hosted by Benito Garcia, this engaging session will guide you through the essential steps of crafting your character and immersing yourself in the world of Mörk Borg. Learn how to navigate the bleak landscapes, battle horrific foes, and embrace the chaos of this award-winning RPG. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, this panel offers valuable insights and tips to enhance your Mörk Borg experience.

TIME

PANELS

9:00 AM START TIME

Character Development Bootcamp

Create detailed character profiles using guided prompts and interactive exercises.

10:00 AM START TIME

OPL's The Book Drop Podcast

What’s Something Everyone Should Read? Join the OPL live recording of The Book Drop Podcast with an episode focused on book recommendations.

PRIDE PANEL

A meetup for LGBTQ community attending OCon – Moderated by THE ChadHatter and THEO!

So Now You're a Cosplayer

Hosted by Mark Davis.
You’ve got the costume, you’ve got the con tickets, so now what? See veteran cosplayers talk about their con experiences, ask questions, and learn more about this amazing hobby! Questions and panel may be recorded for the podcast.

Adult Fans of LEGO

Hosted by LEGO superfan Nate Flood.
Are you an adult fan of LEGO? Meet members of the Lincoln and Omaha LEGO User Group as we discuss the LEGO hobby for adult fans!

Who Would Win?

Come pit your favorite characters against each other to see who is the best way random challenges. Could Sailor Moon throw a better party than Naruto? Could Batman eat more pancakes than Shadow the Hedgehog? You decide!

11:00 AM START TIME

Jeff Hays Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with voice talent and special guest Jeff Hays.

pride panel

A meetup for the LGBTQ community attending OCon.

Pester Hester

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with comic creator and special guest Phil Hester.

12:00 PM START TIME

OPL's The Book Drop Podcast

What’re You Reading Right Now? Join the OPL live recording of The Book Drop Podcast focused on books people are enjoying now.

Kevin Thompson & Tracey Thompson Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with actors and special guests Kevin and Tracey Thompson.

Ant Lucia Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with DC Bombshells creator and special guest Ant Lucia.

The Humanity of Superman

Hosted by Sci-Fi Author Darby Harn.
Superman returns to the big screen this summer, and brings with him an endless question: why is he the most enduring superhero? What makes Superman super? Join us to celebrate this timeless character, discuss what makes him tick, and talk about his future!

Klingon Jeopardy

Hosted by Levi Miller and other Klingons.
Star Trek Jeopardy hosted by Klingons. That’s right, it’s game time with Klingon Jeopardy.

How to build your cosplay from a hobby to a business

Hosted by Justin Hansen.
Building your cosplay hobby into a business and brand.

1:00 PM START TIME

Johnny whitworth Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with actor and special guest Johnny Whitworth.

Voice acting Then and Now

Featuring Mark “Kidwok” Britten, Larry Brantley, and more. Description coming soon.

Connecting With Your Creativity

What is the meaning and purpose of art and creation? Learn a few tricks to avoid the fear of boredom and failure! Ridiculous voices and dramatic reading promised!

Mandalorian Culture: a History

Hosted by the Omaha Area’s Star Wars Clubs.
Join members of the local Mando Mercs Costume Club as they discuss Mandalorian Culture throughout its history in the Star Wars universe.

Dylan Jacobson and Gabe Perez Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with comic guests Gabe Perez and Dylan Jacobson.

2:00 PM START TIME

Amanda Bearse Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with actress and special guest Amanda Bearse.

a career in animation & possibly halloween

Hosted by animator Ben Lane.
With nearly 30 years of animation experience, I can provide some insight on what it’s like work in the industry, how it’s evolved, and what it takes to work in animation. My experience includes character animation, character design, and storyboarding on such productions as Family Guy and The Simpsons. I’ve worked with Cartoon Network, Disney feature animation, Disneytoons, and Fox TV animation.

Jim Mehsling Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with comic book artist and special guest Jim Mehsling.

Smash Bros. Or Pass Bros.

Hosted by super fan Jacob Titus.
Join us as we talk about building the roster for the ultimate crossover fighting game; Smash Bros!

1-Hour Short Story Workshop

Hosted by Sci-Fi Author Darby Harn.
Write a short story in an hour! Join bestselling, critically acclaimed author Darby Harn for a fun interactive experience where you learn to kickstart your writing! Come prepared to write, share, and leave with the foundation of new stories!

3:00 PM START TIME

Erik Estrada Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with actor, activist, and special guest Erik Estrada.

All Things Cosplay Photography

Hosted by Lauren Schweer.
With the popularity of cosplay in the mainstream media, there is so much competition for “good content” – there are SOOOO MANY “cosplay” photographers to sift through. How do you pick the one best for you? How do you make the most of your session? What should you expect as a client? What should you deliver as a photographer? Maybe you’re just wanting some tips on how to up your photo game?

Mork Borg: Gameplay

Immerse yourself in the dark, gritty world of Mörk Borg during a live gameplay session. Join Game Master Benito Garcia, and the desperate and lowly players as they navigate a post-apocalyptic realm filled with chaos and despair. Experience the mayhem and madness that has made Mörk Borg a cult favorite. See if the wayward characters can muster the strength to overcome deadly challenges and horrifying creatures. The Old World may be doomed, but the spirit of adventure is alive and well in this thrilling live game play of MORK BORG.

Unpacking Mental Baggage in Hazbin Hotel

Hosted by David Depew, LMHC.
Step into the twisted world of “Hazbin Hotel” as we unravel the demons’ inner struggles! Led by mental health therapist David Depew, this panel dives into the show’s portrayal of mental health, empowerment, and redemption. Whether you’re a fan or a curious soul, don’t miss this fiery, enlightening experience! See you there!

4:00 PM START TIME

Paola Lazano Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with actress and special guest Paola Lázaro.

Mark Bagley Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with comic book artist and special guest Mark Bagley.

City of Heroes: The MMO That Stands the Test of Time

After it’s initial shutdown in 2012, the fans of this superhero driven MMO banded together to resurrect the game and its one of a kind community. Come learn what sets this game apart, and why it still has the staying power to attract new players to this day. Be the hero you always wanted to be, for free, with awesome people!

Let's Make An Anime

Hosted by super fan Jacob Titus.
Join the hive mind, or panel, where all of us together will brainstorm the next hit anime. What will it be? Help us decide.

My Favorite Conspiracy Theories!

Hosted by super fan John Powers.
Everybody likes a spicy conspiracy theory! This panel will cover a number of my favorite UFO conspiracy theories!! From Roswell to the antics of MK Ultra, we will discuss the truths (or untruths) of many wild claims!

5:00 PM START TIME

Indie Publishing AMA

Indie authors are changing the publishing world! What does it take to be a successful indie author? Bring your burning questions about indie writing and publishing to this informative session where you can learn from successful indie authors with first-hand experience in making your dreams come true!

6:00 PM START TIME

Cosplay Contest

The Omaha region’s biggest and best cosplay competition is back for 2025. Join thousands of fans in the Gordon and Sapien room to see which cosplayer is crowned champion.

Blood on the Clocktower

TIME

PANELS

9:00 AM START TIME

Build Your Magic System

Learn how to create a unique and balanced magic system by exploring core principles like limitations, costs, world integration, and narrative impact, with hands-on exercises to bring your magical world to life.

Blood on the Clocktower

10:00 AM START TIME

Cuddle a Corgi

The fan favorite OCon Cuddle a Corgi room is back for 2025! Join dozens of corgis and tons of other excited fans for a fur-filling cuddle session.

11:00 AM START TIME

Hacksaw Jim Duggan Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with wrestling legend and special guest Hacksaw Jim Duggan.

Ande Parks Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with comic book artist and special guest Ande Parks.

Cosplay, Commissions, and Fab as a Profession

Hosted by Cosplay Guest Tim Harrison.
Curious about doing commissions, industry work, and or guest work full time? Come chat with the cosplay guests.

Foundling Armor Coloring Hour!

Hosted by the Omaha Area’s Star Wars Clubs.
We’ve saved our “beskar” scraps all year to provide armor for all the young foundlings who want to follow the way of Mandalore! Parents and guardians, make sure your foundlings are ready to stretch their creative coloring muscles as they color their own set of cardboard armor. Crayons, markers, armor, and artistic encouragement all donated by Ne’tra Vhipir Clan.

12:00 PM START TIME

Kids Cosplay Jamboree

The Saturday Cosplay Competition isn’t the only fun cosplay event happening in the Sapien Room. Kids can show off their costumes on stage in the Kids Cosplay Jamboree.

Deryl Skelton Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with comic book artist and special guest Deryl Skelton.

Podcasting 101 for Fandom-Driven Creators with Webberized

Want to start a podcast about your favorite nerdy niche but not sure where to begin? This crash course with Webberized, Omaha’s nerdiest podcast studio, breaks it all down. You’ll learn how to launch a podcast, from gear and recording tips to editing and publishing.

1:00 PM START TIME

Michael Copon Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with actor and special guest Michael Copon.

Meet the Nebraska Star Wars Costuming Clubs!

Hosted by the Omaha Area’s Star Wars Clubs.
Come and learn about who we are, what we do, and how you can become involved! Hosted jointly by current members and leadership of local chapters of the Rebel Legion, Mando Mercs, the 501st, the Dark Empire, and Defenders Detachment.

Jeff Hays: Reading

Exactly as it sounds. Soundbooth Theater’s Jeff Hays brings his talented voice to OCon to do what he does best… read! That’s right, a live-reading session with Jeff Hays.

A Nerdy Love Story with Webberized: Date Night

You’re invited to a live taping of a podcast called Date Night with Richard and Margie from Webberized, Omaha’s nerdiest podcast studio. They’ll share their own nerdy love stories, and then share the mic with Ocon couples to hear their stories. See you there!

Creative Persistence

Hosted by Sci-Fi Author Darby Harn.
What does it take to become a professional writer? How do you know where to start or when to quit? Join sci-fi and fantasy author Darby Harn for an informative, interactive discussion about creative perseverance and never giving up on your dreams and ambitions.

Artist Jam with Fredd Gorham

Hang out and draw with artist and illustrator Fred Gorham.

2:00 PM START TIME

Scott McCord Q&A

A fan-centric conversation and Q&A with voice actor and special guest Scott McCord.

Crafting Star Wars Armor 101

Hosted by the Omaha Area’s Star Wars Clubs.
Join experienced members of the local Star Wars costuming clubs as they discuss how you can craft armor using all types of methods and materials from pepakura to shaped plastic to 3D printing!

Lights, Camera, We're Live Pal!

Hosted by Logan Davis.
This panel is meant to take a peek behind what it takes to put on pro wrestling entertainment events in the area. Led by Magnum Wrestling owner and former WWE NXT intern, Logan Davis, along with some wrestling themselves, this panel is a fun discussion meant to give a look at all the fun behind the scenes moments of pro wrestling!

Cranking through History: the tale of the Hurdy Gurdy

Come along for the tale of the Hurdy Gurdy as it evolved through history from the monks in the early medieval church to modern folk metal bands and Netflix TV shows. Sprinkled with some examples of music through history on a real hurdy gurdy! Be prepared to maybe catch the dancing plague!

3:00 PM START TIME

Chronosynthesis: An intro to ideology, finishing, distressing, and aging techniques

Hosted by Cosplay Guest Tim Harrison.
Talking about methods and ideology for developing a visual story and history for aging and distressing techniques.

Bluey Beats the Blues: The Mental Health Benefits of Bluey!

Hosted by David Depew, LMHC.
Join mental health therapist, David Depew, for a family-friendly, interactive panel exploring how Bluey brings mental health and emotional wellness through play and connection. Discover how the show’s relatable stories can help families build resilience, strengthen communication, and nurture emotional growth in children and adults alike. Perfect for fans of all ages, this panel offers insights inspired by Bluey’s adventures to bring more joy and mindfulness to your friends and family dynamic.

4:00 PM START TIME

The Psychology of Creativity: Overcoming Writer's Block & Burnout

Discussing mindset, imposter syndrome, productivity hacks, and maintaining creative energy over time.

I'M THE MAP

Not sure where to find the panel you’re looking for? Have no fear, we have a map!